25 minutes
Mobile ticket
Take in truly magnificent views of Franz Josef Glacier and surrounds with this helicopter flight. See lush rainforest, the amazing glacier, and the impressive Southern Alps mountain range. Part of this flight time is an alpine landing (approximately 10 minutes) where you get to land on top of a peak and pause to take in the dramatic scenery.
• See unforgettable views of the West Coast region
• Get a unique perspective on the Franz Josef Glacier
• Work with a local husband and wife team
• The snow levels on this alpine (rocky mountain) landing site vary seasonally
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please let us know if you have limited mobility e.g. injury, arthritis or recent surgery? There are two high ladder style steps into the helicopter. This information could effect what helicopter we fly you in.
Comfort Seats: Our helicopter seats are 40cm wide, an empty seat can be reserved next to you if you prefer extra space (passengers 120KG & over when weighed at check in will be required to purchase a Comfort Seat - these are half the RRP of your flight).
Please note snow levels on this 25minute flight are seasonal. In summer the alpine landing site may have no snow & be a rocky mountain side. Please book a longer flight option for gauranteed snow.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Franz Josef Glacier
The Glacier Explorer flight includes stunning views of the Franz Josef Glacier.
Professional, experienced pilot
All taxes, fees, and charges
Alpine landing (approx. 10 minutes)
Scenic 25-minute helicopter flight
Comfort Seat (required for passengers 120kg / 265lbs+)
Front seat upgrade requests (subject to availability)
213 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Irene M,,Dec 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
It was amazing to do heli landing on the glacier. The pilot Mark is great! He brought us around before landing on the Franz Joseph glacier. Thank you!
I2308AMmichaeln,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
A completely fantastic and breathtaking experience 👍 The snowlanding is so crazy beautiful and we were incredibly lucky with the weather so just WAUW!!



Fabiola C,,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
Wonderful experience! The staff was nice! Our pilot, Mark, is a pro! Thank you for this amazing experience!
Daniela J,,Dec 11, 2025
- Review from Viator
Such a trill to be on top of the mountain in the snow. The view was amazing. I wish I could do it again.
Traveler07489082918,,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic experience. Safe flight. Pilot was great. Well organised. Great staff. All in all a superb experience and highly recommended
Lloyd D,,Nov 30, 2025
- Review from Viator
Great company to book with. Excellent communication and reorganisation of flight time to accommodate the weather. Would highly recommend.
Cheryl F,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
Incredible a must do The weather was perfect and the scenery is stunning The landing experience was surreal The pilot was informative


Caz S,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
Amazing experience! We felt very safe in the capable hands of Mark our pilot and we were impressed by the stunning views. We were very lucky with the weather and able to land on the glacier, after a couple of days with poor weather conditions.
David S,,Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
A good experience which could be great with a few minor tweaks. Our pilot had to adapt our flight to suit the weather conditions but could have communicated better. Seated in the back of the helicopter one already has a restricted view, which was not helped by the front seat passenger holding up a large I pad to take photos! Having said that it was pretty amazing to land on the glacier and get out for a short time.
marcilinho,,Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Just a dream! Great experience! Had sunshine and the flight, the view was just unique. Clear recommendation:).
Operated by Glacier Country Helicopters